Frequently Asked Questions about Residence Permits and Real Estate in Montenegro 2026

Planning a move to Montenegro in 2026? Our detailed guide contains answers to the most pressing questions about legalization through purchasing a home, starting a business, or obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa. Learn how the rules for obtaining a Montenegrin residence permit based on real estate have changed, what requirements are imposed on foreigners, and how to register a company in the current environment. Relocation to Montenegro remains an attractive option for investors and digital nomads, but it's important to consider new legal nuances and tax changes. In this article, we've covered all the details, from the cost of a residence permit to the processing time, to ensure your relocation to the Adriatic coast is as smooth and secure as possible.

GoMonte provides assistance with remote company registration in Montenegro and with obtaining a residence permit. Get a consultation:

Phone/WhatsApp/Telegram: +382 67 322 888. Email: gomonte3000@gmail.com

• Is it possible to open a company in Montenegro remotely?

Yes, you can open a company remotely, using a power of attorney. However, if you want to obtain a residence permit by opening a company, you must come in person to obtain a boravak.

• What income is required to obtain a digital nomad residence permit?

A digital nomad visa is issued to remote employees whose salary is at least €1,350/month.

• Do nomads need to pay taxes in Montenegro if they have a residence permit based on real estate?

If you live in the country for more than 183 days, you become a tax resident. However, the tax on income from abroad for nomads is often 0% under special programs. A residence permit based on real estate makes you a "local," which simplifies opening bank accounts.

• What is the internet speed in Montenegrin cities?

By 2026, fiber optics up to 1 Gbps will be available in all major cities (Budva, Tivat, Bar). Starlink and 5G are actively used in mountainous areas, allowing for comfortable remote work from anywhere in the country.

• Can I obtain a residence permit in Montenegro by renting property?

No, the law does not provide for foreigners to obtain a residence permit solely by renting a property. To obtain a residence permit in Montenegro, you must purchase real estate, find a job or start a business, or work remotely with an income of at least €1,350 per month.

• Can I obtain a residence permit by purchasing commercial real estate?

Yes, Montenegrin law treats ownership of commercial properties (offices, hotels, restaurants) as residential for the purposes of obtaining a residence permit. This is an excellent way to combine business investment and legalization in the country.

• How to open a corporate bank account in Montenegro in 2026?

Opening a company account (D.O.O.) requires the director's personal presence, an office lease agreement, and proof of legality of funds. Having a residence permit for the director's real estate significantly speeds up the bank's compliance check.

• What is the property rental tax for companies?

Rental income for legal entities is subject to corporate income tax at a rate of 9% to 15%. This makes Montenegro one of the most advantageous jurisdictions in Europe for setting up a rental business.

• How much does a residence permit in Montenegro cost?

The cost of a residence permit in Montenegro depends on the reason: fees start from €80 on average, translation of documents into Serbian starts from €15, notarization costs €5, insurance costs €30, medical examination costs €30, obtaining a certificate of good conduct from the Consulate costs €10, and turnkey support starts from €300.

• Are there Russian-language or international schools in Montenegro?

Yes, there are international schools (such as Knightsbridge) and private Russian-language educational institutions in Tivat, Budva, and Podgorica. A residence permit entitles your children to attend public schools and kindergartens free of charge.

• How safe is Montenegro for living with children?

Montenegro is among the safest countries in Europe. It has a low crime rate, and a culture of "childhood" allows children to play safely outside. A residence permit provides access to state-funded healthcare for the entire family.

• How quickly can I relocate my family after purchasing a home?

First, the primary owner obtains a residence permit (approximately 30 days), then documents are submitted for the family under the "family reunification" program. The entire process takes approximately 2-3 months.

• What is the rental yield (ROI) in Budva and Tivat?

In 2026, the net yield from short-term rentals is 6-8% per annum, and from long-term rentals, 4-5%. The asset itself grows in value (capitalization) by an average of 7-10% per year.

• What is property management and how much does it cost?

Management companies take on the search for tenants and property maintenance for 10-20% of the income. This allows investors to earn passive income from anywhere in the world.

• Where to buy a luxury villa with a yacht berth?

The best locations are Porto Montenegro (Tivat), Portonovi (Kumbor), and Luštica Bay. Here, the properties meet global ultra-luxury standards, and ownership entitles you to VIP service and simplified residency permit processing.

• Are there gated communities with security in Montenegro?

Yes, modern projects like Luštica Peaks offer complete privacy, 24-hour security, and concierge service. This is a top choice for HNWIs who value safety and the environment.

• How does property ownership privacy work?

The Real Estate Registry (List Nepokretnosti) is public, but ownership through a Montenegrin company or trust structure allows for the necessary level of privacy for the owner.

• Is it possible to obtain a residence permit by purchasing a house in the mountains (Kolašin, Žabljak)?

Yes, the property requirements are the same throughout the country. Buying a chalet in a ski resort gives the same rights to a residence permit as an apartment on the coast.

• Where is the best place to live for access to both beaches and parks?

The cities of Bar and Tivat are ideal hubs. The sea is just 5 minutes away from them, and national parks and mountains are about 1.5–2 hours by car. This allows you to change climate zones in a single day.

• Which property is cheaper: in the north or the south?

Real estate in the north (Kolašin) is currently rapidly rising in price due to new ski slopes, but is still 30-40% cheaper than coastal properties. This is a great time to enter the market.

• Does a Montenegrin residence permit help you get a Schengen visa?

Yes, with a residence permit card (boravak), you can apply for Schengen visas at the consulates of Spain, France, and Germany directly in Podgorica. The approval rate for residents is higher, and visas are longer.

• When will Montenegro join the EU and what will happen to residence permits?

Accession is expected between 2028 and 2030. After accession, current residence permit holders will have priority when applying for permanent residence under the European model and the right to visa-free travel within Europe.

• Can I open a European bank account with a Montenegrin residence permit?

Residents of Montenegro are more trusted by EU banks (for example, in neighboring Croatia or Austria) than tourists. A residence permit card is proof of your legal status in Europe (Proof of Residency).

• Is a criminal record certificate required for the 2026 residence permit?

Yes, it is a mandatory document. It must have been issued no more than six months ago. For Russian citizens, an apostille is not required; only a certified translation into Montenegrin is required.

• What is the minimum account balance required for a residence permit?

For a residence permit based on real estate, you must show proof of €3,650 in a personal account at a Montenegrin bank (at a rate of €10 per day). After receiving the certificate, you can withdraw the funds.

• Is it possible to apply for a residence permit remotely without visiting the country?

No, submitting documents requires in-person presence at the police station to provide biometric data (photo and fingerprints). A power of attorney can only be used to purchase real estate.

• How do I renew my residence permit, and can I do it online?

Renewals are issued annually. Documents must be submitted in person 30 days before the current residence permit expires. Online submission is being tested for some categories in 2026.

• What happens to my residence permit if I sell my property?

The residence permit is cancelled because the basis for its issuance ceases. However, you can reissue it for another reason (for example, opening a company) without leaving the country.

• Can I get a residence permit for two people if there are two owners of the apartment?

Yes, if each owner indicates a share of at least 1/2 in the title deed (List Nepokretnosti).

• Do I need to verify my diploma for a residence permit based on real estate?

No, for a residence permit based on home ownership, confirmation (nostrification) of my diploma is not required. This is only required for residence permits based on work or business.

Read also:

Information about residence permits on our website: gomonte.me/services

Rental prices in the real estate catalog: gomonte.me

2-year digital nomad visa: gomonte.me/blog/post/94

Want to start a business and obtain a residence permit in Montenegro without unnecessary bureaucracy?

Company registration and paperwork in 2026 require knowledge of current legal intricacies and tax changes. Don't risk your time and money – trust the professionals!

GoMonte experts will help you at every stage:

• Company registration: Preparing the charter, selecting activity codes, and full support with the Central Registry.
• Obtaining a residence permit for business: Collecting and submitting documents for the director and his/her family.
• Consulting: Selecting the optimal tax strategy and assistance with opening bank accounts.

Don't put off your dream of living on the Adriatic. Get a consultation today:

Phone/WhatsApp/Telegram: +382 67 322 888. Email: gomonte3000@gmail.com